Whenever I struggle with the demons that rise from my past to torment me, I wonder what nightmares our childhood has left with you. Regardless, I am daily impressed with what a strong, joyous man (when did you stop being a boy?) you are.
We’re less than a year apart and I like to think we should have been twins. Constantly fighting and bickering while growing up, you seemed insufferable to me then. It all changed once I left for college. Suddenly I knew those moments were so very precious and now belonged completely to memory. I cherish my childhood because you were in it. Now I love our relationship and the invigorating, intelligent conversations we have from politics to pets. You are so dear to me.
I’m sorry for being so bossy when we were younger; I realize now what a brat I could be to you, my younger brother. Thanks for turning out, still, as well as you did. Your wife is one of a kind and I’m so thankful you’ve given me such a wonderful sister to love.
You’re moving to Kentucky in a few short weeks and I know you’ll continue to astound us all with your dedication. I know few people who follow their dreams as ardently as you do. I’m going to miss you more than I’ll ever say. I love you so fiercely, Eric. I always have and I always will.
